Among those addressing the council’s budget committee was River City Fraternal Order of Police President John McGuire. He said the city’s recent decision to make officers pay $30 per month for the cars was made too quickly.

“It was unilaterally imposed without negotiating with the union,” said Gage. “It is our position, obviously, that this is an issue that affects wages, hours and working conditions which is required by law and our contract to be negotiated with the union.”

McGuire said the union is not opposed to a fee, but should have been included in the decision-making process.

The mayor’s office announced the monthly fee last week to help offset high gas prices.